AAA State of Play Blog: 2016

Thursday, December 22, 2016

New Year's Playvolution: 10 Ways to Jumpstart a Playful, Creative 2017

Photo by "G" jewels g is for grandma (Flickr)

As I reflect on 2016, I marvel at all the fun play times my girls and I have shared. I'm also looking forward to making a New Year's "playvolution" and enjoying even more play this next year. Here are 10 activities, resolutions, and ideas that will jump-start our playful, creative 2017. Will you join us?

Buy a YMCA Membership

Our entire family will have an easier time staying active year-round when we join the YMCA. It offers a variety of community play and fitness opportunities for all age groups and fitness levels.

Give Active Gifts

It should come as no surprise that my favorite holiday gifts promote play and activity. Bicycles, snowshoes, jump ropes, and other fitness-oriented gifts can motivate everyone on your gift list to play and explore.

Babysit Other Kids

Whenever I spend time playing with kids, I find myself relaxing and having fun. I also learn new games and love how kids have a different perspective on life. Volunteer to babysit at local community activities or offer your services to your neighbors to add more play to your life.

Take a Group Class

I love my yoga class! This year, I'm also committed to taking a Zumba class, and my older daughter wants to learn how to line-dance. What type of group class would you like to try? Check your local rec or community center for affordable classes that interest you.

Make Art

There's something about art that brings out the kid in me! We always have a stocked art supply box with crayons, clay, and other supplies, and it sparks our creativity. As you and your family finger-paint self-portraits, create collages of your favorite things, and draw unique animals, remember to have fun and not worry about coloring outside of the lines as you create.

Learn a New Game

My dad was the jacks champion in his childhood class, and he was thrilled when my girls asked him to teach them how to play. What new games could your family learn to play this year? Ask grandparents and friends for suggestions and find new games at your local toy store.

Set up a Neighborhood Sports League

What games do your neighbors enjoy playing? Start a neighborhood football, basketball, soccer, or hockey league and meet regularly to practice and play. You'll have fun, build community relationships, and stay active as a family.

Train for a 5K

Several charities in our community host 5K races to raise funds. We decided as a family to train for these races and get active as we support good causes.

Adopt a Shelter Animal

If your family is ready to adopt a pet, visit the local animal shelter and find a new furry friend. Caring for and loving a pet encourages physical activity, relieves stress, and builds responsibility.

Schedule More Play Time With Your Kids

On New Year's Eve, I sit down with a glass of sparkling cider and my planner and record birthdays and other important events. I also schedule time to play with my girls every day. Prioritizing play is important to me, and I'm more likely to make sure it happens when I see it printed on my daily schedule.

This year is going to be the biggest play year ever for my family! I'm so excited about my New Year's playvolutions. Which of these 10 ideas will you use to jump-start your playful and creative 2017?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Monday, December 19, 2016

Wonderland Walk: 9 Tips for Safe and Fun Winter Hiking

Photo by Francesco Doglio (Flickr)

There's something magical about winter hiking. The white snow, fresh air, and invigorating exercise excite and motivate my girls and me! We started enjoying wonderland walks when my girls were babies, and you can, too, with these tips to keep your entire family safe and comfortable.

Start Winter Hiking When Your Kids Are Small

Hiking with kids is more challenging in cold weather. I remember how long it took to get my girls bundled in their snowsuits and boots! The effort pays off, though, when you see their wonder at finding animal tracks in the snow or seeing a colorful bird along the trail. I'm glad we started hiking when my girls were young. Now, they've built their endurance and can tackle harder trails and see even more winter wonders.

Protect Your Baby

I'm convinced that my girls love hiking today in part because I took them when they were babies. We took three important precautions, though. First, they always wore a dry diaper and layers, and I covered their exposed skin with clothing or a blanket. Second, we used a baby carrier that kept them warm and allowed both of us to enjoy the sights. Third, we stopped every 20 minutes to make sure they were still warm and dry.

Pick a Route Carefully

One of our favorite summer trails crosses a stream and features several steep inclines. That trail is definitely unsafe and off-limits when it's covered in snow and ice. Instead, we choose trials that are safe for our entire family. I consider my kids' stamina, whether the trail is accessible to emergency personnel, and how much time we have to hike.

Tell Someone Where You're Hiking

Thankfully, we've never been stranded on a winter hike, but people get lost, take a wrong path, or suffer an injury while hiking every year. Plan for this possibility by telling someone where you'll be hiking, who's with you, and when you expect to return.

Check the Weather

Last year, my girls and I didn't check the weather outlook and had to finish a hike in a freezing rain storm. We learned our lesson! Now, I always check the forecast for expected weather changes, precipitation, wind speeds, and daylight hours. Remember to check how the altitude may affect conditions, too. It's totally OK to postpone your hike because of unsafe weather conditions.

Carry Life-Saving Gear

Be prepared! Assemble essential life-saving gear and have everyone carry a few items in their backpack.

Here's our list. You can adjust it to meet your needs.

Trail map and compass
Fire-starter and flares
Multi-purpose tool
Extra clothing
Flashlight or headlamp with lithium batteries
Food and water
Rope
First aid supplies including sunscreen, pain reliever, and bandages
Emergency shelter

Dress in Layers

My girls and I have learned over the years that layers and covering exposed skin are the keys to staying warm during cold winter hikes. We always wear these five layers to help us stay dry and prevent hypothermia:

Nylon or polyester wicking layer next to your skin pulls away moisture
Warming layer of wool, polyester, or nylon provides insulation
Waterproof layer protects you from rain, snow, and wind
Hat and gloves or mittens conserve body heat
Goggles or sunglasses prevent eye strain from sun and wind

Wear the Right Shoes

I learned a valuable footwear lesson the first year I hiked in the winter. My feet got cold because I wore only one pair of socks, and I kept slipping in the wet snow in my traditional hiking shoes. Now, I always wear two pairs of socks. The first layer pulls moisture away from the skin, and the second pair insulates your feet. Then, I wear boots that are designed for the trail and weather conditions. They should be broken in, too, so you don't get blisters.

Include Your Pet

Dogs love winter hiking as much as kids. I have friends who even take their dog on overnight winter hikes! If you decide to take your pet hiking, confirm that it's capable of a vigorous winter hike, and follow these etiquette and safety rules.

Verify that your dog is allowed on the trail, since some public parks do not allow dogs. Then, keep your dog on a leash and under control so your dog doesn't chase other hikers or wild animals. Carry water and food for your pet, too. You may also invest in a dog vest, coat, and boots that protect your dog from the elements.

Winter hiking offers your family an amazing opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. With these nine tips, you can stay safe and comfortable and have fun. What other wonderland walk tips do you suggest?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Monday, December 12, 2016

7 Ways That Laughter Fuels the Mind, Body, and Soul

Photo by Ben Francis (Flickr)

Have you ever listened to kids laugh? It's hysterical! Hearing my girls laugh always makes me laugh, and their laughter prompted me to study the topic this week. I found seven ways laughter fuels our minds, bodies, and souls, helps children develop, and leads to grown-up happiness and success. Let's examine these seven ways together.

Laughter Reduces Stress

My stress level was through the roof last Wednesday as I juggled a large work project, a school conference, and a sick child. I felt miserable until a co-worker told a funny joke during lunch. I started laughing and instantly felt less stressed.

There's a reason I felt that way. Laughter is clinically recognized to affect four stress-related hormones: cortisol, dopamine, epinephrine, and growth hormone. Ultimately, it relieves tension and reduces stress. A good belly laugh does wonders for helping kids and adults manage stress successfully. I know it works for me!

Laughter Decreases Pain

As toddlers, my daughters fell often, which meant plenty of skinned knees and tears. To calm them, I told funny jokes and stories. Their laughter didn't completely erase their pain, but science shows that laughter does decrease pain. My girls were able to endure all of those skinned knees and even handle aches they feel today when they laugh.

Laughter Improves Respiration

One of my daughter's friends suffers from chronic asthma. Her mom frequently invites my daughter over for play dates because the girls always end up laughing. She knows that laughter stimulates our lungs and supporting muscles. As we breathe in oxygen-rich air during a fit of the giggles, our lungs expand, and respiration improves. My daughter's friend and anyone with breathing challenges can be healthier because of laughter.

Laughter Strengthens Relationships

According to researchers, we're 30 times more likely to laugh when we're in a group. I know I always laugh more at funny stories when I'm with other people. Laughter is infectious. It also erases age, culture, and demographic boundaries and helps us bond with friends, family, and strangers. I love how laughter strengthens interpersonal relationships, whether we're kids or adults.

Laughter Improves Coping Skills

Life is tough for kids and adults. Maybe your family is facing a challenge like difficult homework, family drama, or chronic illness. Laughter may be the key you need to cope. Humor helps us see things from a positive perspective and encourages us to stop taking ourselves so seriously. Laughter improves our ability to cope with challenges and be successful in life, so watch videos of animal antics, read the comics pages in the newspaper, and tell funny jokes every day.

Laughter Reduces Blood Pressure

At every doctor appointment, the nurse checks my girls' blood pressure. The numbers are usually pretty good, possibly because we laugh so much! Frequent laughter improves blood flow as it dilates blood vessels, increases oxygen intake, and improves blood circulation. Our risk of suffering a stroke or heart attack decreases when our blood pressure drops, and that's a compelling reason to laugh more often.

Laughter Boosts Immunity

My uncle experienced a health scare last year, and laughter was a tool that helped him recover. His doctors always told jokes and encouraged him to watch funny movies. Laughter played a role in healing my uncle because it boosts our immune systems. We get and stay healthier thanks to laughter.

Have you laughed yet today? For kids and adults, laughter provides many benefits as it fuels our mind, body, and soul, helps kids' development, and increases adult happiness and success. I encourage you to make laughter a regular part of your daily routine and see the ways it helps you and your family!

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Building Brilliance: 7 Benefits of Constructive Play

Photo by Howard Lewis Ship (Flickr)

Lego bricks, K'Nex, cups, and boxes are a few of my girls' favorite constructive toys. They enjoy manipulating, connecting, and building. And while they play, they gain seven valuable benefits. Your kids can have fun building brilliance, too, thanks to constructive play.

Hone Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skills describe your child's ability to control their hands and fingers as they move, grip, and write. These skills improve when kids play with construction toys. For example, I've watched my girls grow from barely being able to stack two blocks to building elaborate buildings. Clicking pieces into place, manipulating blocks, and holding blocks and pieces of all sizes hones their fine motor skills and prepares them to dress themselves, throw a ball, and hold a pencil.

Improve Problem-Solving Skills

The other day, my daughter tried to build a gangplank on the pirate ship she made out of blocks. Her first five ideas didn't work, but she kept brainstorming and finally found a solution. I'm grateful that her toys teach her how to solve problems. Because of constructive play, she's learning to think outside of the box, think quickly on her feet, be flexible, and keep trying until her vision becomes reality and she achieves her goal.

Enhance Academic Skills

Did you know that construction toys actually help our kids succeed in school? My younger daughter's teacher uses blocks in the classroom, and I sometimes pull them out to help with homework. As kids connect blocks and build objects, they practice:

Math: Counting, addition, subtraction, and basic geometry all come into play.
Reading and writing: Spacial awareness improves a child's ability to read and write.
Science: Tinkering and experimenting, kids explore cause and effect, hypothesize, and develop curiosity.

Expand Imagination

Constructive play allows kids to create whatever fantasy they imagine. Last week, my girls built a castle complete with a moat and dragon. This week, they built a tall spaceship. And as they play, they expand their imaginations and creativity that will prepare them to face real-world challenges and problems that require unique solutions.

Teach Focus and Patience

Most kids, my girls included, are not naturally focused or patient. They need these important skills to succeed in school, relationships, and every area of life, though. That's another benefit of constructive play. Kids have to focus as they build a project from start to finish and work carefully so they don't knock over their creation. As they play, they actually become more focused, patient, and prepared for life.

Encourage Cooperative Play

Blocks are one toy that brings kids together. They're ideal for boys and girls, and my girls often work together to create elaborate sets for their stories and search for the small pieces they need. This social interaction during constructive play encourages them to be cooperative, work as a team, and self-regulate. With these skills, my girls are better friends and teammates in their everyday social interactions.

Boost Confidence

I remember when my daughter built her first castle from blocks. She was only four, but she squealed with delight and insisted that I take a picture of it. She was so proud, and that confidence gave her courage to continue to build even bigger masterpieces. It encourages me to see how my girls' confidence grows as they play with constructive toys!

Constructive play offers seven key benefits and builds brilliance. It's an ideal way to play. What other benefits do these toys provide your kids?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Monday, November 28, 2016

7 Benefits of Structured Play

Photo by San Jose Library (Flickr)

What do puzzles, Simon Says, and basketball have in common? They are all games my girls enjoy, and they are examples of structured play, activities that can be led by an instructor for the purpose of teaching a lesson or skill. This type of play is different from free play (kids choose the activity and play without adult guidance) or risky play (roughhousing, climbing, and racing). While all types of play are important, structured play provides seven key benefits and allows our kids to have fun as they learn.

Nudges Kids Out of Their Comfort Zones

When left to their own devices, my girls would play the same familiar games and with the same familiar toys. It's important, though, that they stretch their wings and get out of their comfort zones sometimes. Structured play introduces kids to new games and new playmates. Nudging them out of their comfort zone ultimately helps them become well-rounded and more confident individuals.

Improves Social Skills

One of my daughters doesn't enjoy group play with strangers. She prefers playing with people she knows. In her case, structured play at school, the playground, and summer camp encourages her to make new friends and be more social. I love watching her blossom socially, learn to communicate, and develop important social skills as she plays.

Teaches Teamwork

Life is filled with opportunities for our kids to work in teams. Structured play teaches kids how to respect the abilities and opinions of others, exchange ideas, and put themselves aside in favor of the greater good and the team. I appreciate band, board games, and soccer as three examples of structured activities that teach my girls teamwork. This type of play also equips them to be comfortable leading others and following, two essential teamwork traits.

Cultivates Imagination and Creativity

My girls have big imaginations and well-developed creativity in part because I encourage them to consider imaginary scenes as they play. They become spaceships while zooming through the play room picking up toys, and they turn into minnows while I'm the shark during tag. Even though structured play includes adult direction, many games and activities require kids to be flexible and use their imaginations and creativity. With these skills, kids have fun and cultivate the ability to think outside the box in daily life.

Hones Problem-Solving Skills

When faced with a challenge during a board game, kids have to consider different strategies for solving the problem. I will sometimes coach my girls to help them think about how their move will affect the game's outcome, but generally, I let them think through the situation themselves. These situations hone my girls' problem-solving skills. They're better able to come up with solutions in real life because of structured play.

Develops Emotional Skills

Identifying and expressing emotions is a learned skill. Since my girls were toddlers, I've used structured play opportunities to help them identify and express their emotions. Together, we've worked through disappointments over losing at Uno and frustrations over missing puzzle pieces. We've also learned to empathize with others, show kindness, and acknowledge grief as we've played.

Boosts Physical Activity

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend at least 60 minutes of exercise per day for our kids. Use structured play to help your children move. Play hopscotch on the walk home from school, have them run from the laundry room to their bedrooms as they put away laundry, or organize a game of Capture the Flag with the neighbors. This activity can prevent obesity and make sure our kids stay active.

Structured play provides seven key benefits for our kids. It's fun, too! How will you add more structured play time and its benefits into your child's life this week?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Friday, November 25, 2016

How Play Develops Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication Skills

Photo by Bill Benzon (Flickr)

Babies typically say their first word by 12 to 18 months of age, and it sure doesn't take long for their verbal skills to take off! I remember my older daughter talking up a storm by the time she turned two. Meanwhile, my younger daughter preferred non-verbal communication and didn't say her first word until she was almost two. No matter when your kids start to talk, play helps them develop important verbal and non-verbal communication skills in several ways.

Develop the Foundations of Verbal Language

Don't you love hearing babies coo as you sing, read, or talk to them? Those sounds form the foundation of a child's speaking ability. That's why you should talk to babies and kids of all ages often. Babies and toddlers watch your lips and imitate what they hear, so use regular words rather than baby talk. Play plenty of games like patty cake, and read books, too.

Read Body Language

Have you ever noticed how babies watch their caregivers carefully? They're taking mental notes and learning how to read body language, an important non-verbal communication skill. When kids can read body language, they understand that a smile means someone is pleased and crossed arms may mean that a friend is angry. These inferences improve a child's ability to communicate without words.

Express Emotions

I loved watching my young girls squeal with excitement, but I remember their frustrations when they were hungry or tired. I was grateful when they could finally tell me what they were feeling! Play helps kids develop the ability to express their emotions properly. Use puppets, dress-up, and dolls as you expose your kids to different emotions and teach them the right way to express their feelings.

Learn New Vocabulary Words

Preschool was a huge verbal learning experience. It seemed like my daughters learned new words every day as they played with their peers. Kids also learn new words and phrases as they play at home. If possible, introduce a variety of toys to your kids. Their vocabulary will grow as they operate a train, cook on a pretend stove, and draw a spaceship.

Take Turns

While playing with a rattle, babies learn that it makes a sound when they shake it. When toddlers roll a ball to you, they learn that you will roll it back. These two activities are examples of how play teaches cause and effect as well as how to take turns. This foundational skill is essential for communication. It equips kids to be patient, polite, and considerate as they talk with others.

Share Opinions

I've always wanted to empower my girls to share their thoughts and opinions. To do this, they have to know and verbalize what they like. Play is essential for helping kids discover and share their opinions. While enjoying a variety of objects and games, they discover their preference for word, action, or strategy games. They also learn if they like leading, following, or peace-keeping. Make-believe play can even help our kids develop career interests and goals as it equips kids to share opinions on a variety of topics.

I'm a big fan of play for many reasons, including the ways it helps kids develop verbal and nonverbal communication skills. How has play helped your child become a better communicator?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Wednesday, November 9, 2016

How Can Play Therapy Help Children Heal and Thrive?

Photo by Jeremy Miles (Flickr)

When you think of therapy, do you think of toys, costumes, drawing materials, sand, water, balls, or clay? These fun tools are exactly what play therapists use to help kids grow, thrive, and heal. I've seen it work for many kids, and it makes sense since kids use play to explore the world, learn about life, regulate emotions, and develop their sense of self-worth. Play therapy can help your kids and kids of all ages in several key ways.

Learn to Express Emotions

Instead of using words to tell me how they felt, my young girls stomped their feet when they were angry or squealed in delight when they were excited. It takes maturity and training for kids to verbalize their feelings. That's why play is essential. While playing in a safe environment, children can act out, draw, or verbalize how they feel and discover how to express their emotions every day.

Relieve Stress

Stress is a serious adult problem, but it affects kids, too. They can feel worried, anxious, and stressed about family dynamics, health issues, friendships, and other challenges. Childhood stress can affect their physical health, school performance, and relationships.

During play therapy, kids find stress relief. Not only do they identify and process the causes of their stress, but they also learn how to use play and fun to relieve stress in a natural way.

Work Through Trauma

When kids experience trauma, they often cannot verbalize how they feel. Many adults I know even struggle to work through trauma. So when kids experience something traumatic, they need an age-appropriate way to work through their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Play therapy gives kids the time, space, and resources they need to work through trauma caused by:

Relocation
Grief and loss
Divorce and family dynamic changes
Crisis and trauma
Hospitalization or chronic illness
Physical or sexual abuse
Domestic violence
Neglect
Natural disasters

If your child experiences one of these traumas, give them access to play therapy. It can assist them in working through the traumatic experience and finding the healing they need and deserve.

Modify Behavior

A few months ago, my daughter experienced several anger outbursts. I was baffled about it until I took her to play therapy. There, she was able to work through her feelings about her best friend moving away.

Almost any behavior can be modified with play therapy. It's useful to address:

Anger management
Anxiety and phobias
Depression
Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD)
Autism
Pervasive developmental, academic, and social problems
Physical and learning disabilities
Conduct disorders

If your child's behavior has changed, consider play therapy. It's a non-threatening outlet that helps kids find healing and make positive behavioral changes.

Teach Real-Life Coping Skills

We like to shelter our kids from real-life hurts, but as a mom, I know that's impossible. Instead, we can equip them with coping skills that help them grow and mature.

I appreciate how play therapy equips kids to see situations in a new way and discover and rehearse the right way to approach and handle those situations. They can role-play a social circumstance or practice a hobby like cooking or art that allows them to release pent-up emotions and handle life in a positive way. Play therapy also helps kids take responsibility for their actions, solve problems, and become more self-assured about their ability to find solutions to everyday challenges they face in real life.

Develop Social Skills

I watched my girls play with the neighborhood kids this weekend and noted how one kid used intimidation to get his way while another teased her brother until he almost cried. I did intervene in both cases but also realized that these kids need to develop social skills and learn how to relate to others. Play therapy teaches kids how to respect and accept themselves and others. It also cultivates empathy and respect for the feelings, opinions, and thoughts other people have. Learning to relate to people is a skill kids must learn, and play therapy teaches these lessons.

Close Communication Gaps With Parents

Many play therapists understand that parents play a key role in a child's life success. That's why they introduce filial play therapy, where the parents get involved. Parents who play with their kids enter their child's world. They discover the hopes, dreams, fears, and challenges their kids face, and they can begin communicating more. Closing that communication gap allows parents and kids to build stronger relationships that weather emotional storms and help kids thrive.

Fill a Recess Void

Thankfully, my girls' school still offers recess breaks every day, but many school take this play time away. Computers and TV screens take over at home, too, as kids spend more than seven hours in front of screens each day. That means kids are not getting enough time to release energy, reduce stress, and have fun. Play therapy can fill the recess void and give kids an excuse to play. The therapist can even give kids play homework that keeps them active between sessions.

Now that you know how play therapy can help your kids, you may be ready to use it with your children. Ask your family physician or your child's mental health professional for a referral. Play therapy sessions usually occur once a week for 30 to 50 minutes. Ideally, your child will choose the therapy activities so that they feel safe. I've seen how it works firsthand to help kids grow, thrive, and heal. How could it help the children you love?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Monday, November 7, 2016

Growing Up Grateful: 9 Ways to Foster Gratitude in Kids

Photo by Coconino National Forest (Flickr)

Turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie make my mouth water as I think about Thanksgiving. Yum! Even more important than the food, though, is the gratitude we show at this time of year. I want my girls to grow up grateful, and there are nine specific ways in which I teach them to foster gratitude and cultivate appreciation. These tips can work for your children, too.

Start Early

It's never too soon to teach gratitude! I'm sure you've noticed that kids are naturally self-centered, but they can learn to be grateful and show appreciation. Teach your young children to say "please" and "thank you." They can do this each time you give them a snack or help them tie their shoes, and you, too, can thank your kids when they do something for you. This repetition from an early age helps your children develop a habit of gratitude that will grow as they age.

Role-Play Showing Gratitude

One of my girls is shy. As a result, she struggled a few years ago to say thank you when she received a gift. We overcame this challenge through role-playing. With stuffed animals and pretend birthday parties, she finally learned to be comfortable saying thank you. We even practiced showing thanks for a gift that wasn't exactly what she wanted. Through our role-playing, she has become a more appreciative person.

Create a Daily Gratitude Routine

Every day, our kids face dozens of opportunities to show gratitude. We decided last year to be intentional about showing thanks. Before bed every night, we share at least one thing we're thankful for about our day. Sometimes, my girls are grateful for little things like warm jackets, tacos, and friends, but last week, my daughter was grateful that her friend didn't have to go to the hospital. This daily ritual teaches my girls to be intentional about giving thanks daily.

Serve Your Community

Our children are incredibly fortunate. They are surrounded by so many blessings, and I want them to share their fortunes with others. As often as possible, we serve people in our community. We may serve food at a soup kitchen, clean up a local playground, or play with puppies at the animal shelter. I also encourage my girls to look for ways to help our neighbors. They rake leaves, bake cookies, and unload groceries as they give back and serve the community.

Thank Public Servants

Firefighters, police officers, mail carriers, bus drivers, and teachers are all examples of public servants who keep our kids safe and help them. I find that thanking public servants is a way to teach my girls to be grateful. We give gifts to their teachers, prepare goodie baskets for our local police and fire station break rooms, and make cookies for their bus driver. These acts of gratitude teach my girls to appreciate the public servants in their lives.

Start a Gratitude Bucket

Dozens of good things happen to us every day. It's easy to forget those blessings, though. So I started a gratitude bucket a few years ago to remind us to be appreciative. Every day in November, we write down three things for which we are thankful. We read the list before Thanksgiving dinner. This annual tradition is a favorite way to learn the art of appreciation.

Donated Unwanted Toys

My girls are blessed with a multitude of toys, books, and art supplies. I decided that this year, we would donate some of the items they don't use, want, or love. Donating unwanted toys is a great way for my girls to practice gratitude. We give the items to local families and organizations that are in need. I appreciate that my girls are learning to share and be grateful for their many blessings.

Thank Family Members

My girls are super-excited this month to start writing their holiday wish list. They both have clothing, toys, and other items they can't wait to receive. In addition to material gifts, though, I also want my girls to be grateful for our family members who give them gifts. I ask my girls each year to write a list of things they appreciate about their parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. This exercise reminds them that the people in their lives are more important than objects. The list is also a special memento for our family members.

Be a Role Model of Gratitude

I know my girls will adopt my words and actions. That means I want to be a good role model of gratitude. Every day, I attempt to show my appreciation. I thank my girls when they do their chores, I thank the grocery store clerk for bagging my groceries, and I thank my partner for picking up milk on the way home. Showing thanks in the small and big things encourages my girls to show appreciation, too.

I think it's important that our kids grow up grateful. In these nine ways, I foster gratitude in my kids. What other tips do you use to teach your kids to show appreciation and give thanks every day of the year?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Wednesday, October 26, 2016

25 Simple Acts of Kindness That Kids Can Do

Photo by Angie Muldowney (Flickr)

As parents and caregivers, we want our kids to practice kindness and compassion. It's the right thing to do, and research proves that showing kindness helps us feel good, be happier, and live longer. While my girls are usually kind, they do have their moments of selfishness. There is hope for them, though! According to Barbara Fredrickson, a leading positive psychology author, people become kinder as they count the number of times they show kindness during the day. I'm excited that I can train my girls to be kind! Here's my list of 25 simple, accessible acts of kindness that my kids can do every day as they practice and learn this important life skill.

Help a senior citizen or mom load groceries into their car and then return the cart to the corral.
Volunteer to play with a neighbor's kids for an hour or two while the parent takes a nap, does chores, or goes on a date.
Carry your neighbor's empty trash cans in from the street on trash day.
Invite someone who is sitting alone at the table to eat lunch or play with you.
Show your grandparents how to use their computer or cell phone.
Compliment someone every day.
Do a sibling's chores for them.
Give cold water bottles to the mail carrier, road workers, or sanitation crew.
Pick up litter around your neighborhood, park, or school and throw it away.
Write a thank-you letter to your parents, another relative, or one of your friends.
Smile and say hi to someone.
Buy bottles of bubbles and hand them out to kids in your neighborhood.
Use part of your allowance to pay the bill for the car behind you at the drive-through or buy someone's dinner.
Visit a cemetery and pull weeds or grass away from the overgrown headstones.
Put a small note and popcorn money into the case of a rented movie before you return it.
High-five a classmate who answers a question correctly at school.
Dry the slides, swings, and other equipment at the park after it rains.
Volunteer at a local pet shelter, where you can play with the animals or organize a pet food or blanket collection.
Clear the table and wash, dry, and put away the dishes after dinner without being asked.
Write a kind or inspiring note on a piece of paper and leave it in your favorite library book.
Donate gently used clothing you've outgrown to a local family shelter. Ask your friends to donate, too.
Pack your favorite dessert in your lunch box, then share it with someone who didn't bring a dessert in their lunch.
Give your teacher an appreciation gift just because you want to.
Let one of your siblings go first as you get on the school bus or when you go out for ice cream.
Hold the door open for your family members, classmates, and other shoppers at stores.

Kindness is a trait I want my girls to show, and I can train them to be kind as we practice simple acts of kindness every day. In addition to these 25 ideas, what other kind acts could you and your children do for others?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Wednesday, October 19, 2016

7 Ways That Play Builds Problem-Solving Skills

Photo by J Aaron Farr (Flickr)

As adults, we face dozens of problems every day. Will we have time to buy milk today? How do I tell my coworker that she talks too loudly? What's the fastest thing to make for dinner? Where will we go this weekend as a family to play? Solving problems is a skill every human should have, and it's one we all cultivate in childhood when we play. I watch my girls build problem-solving skills every day in seven ways.

Think Independently

I don't often tell my girls what to play because they need to make those decisions on their own. My plan is to raise girls who can think and solve problems independently.

They learn this skill as they enjoy free play and decide what playtime activities to enjoy and how to do those activities. That independence during play helps them become independent thinkers as they grow into adulthood.

Learn to Improvise

Sometimes, we only have seconds to solve a problem. In those instances, the ability to improvise comes in handy.

Kids can learn to improvise during dramatic play. The other day, I watched my girls play doctors. They didn't have their doctor kit nearby but quickly used a jump rope as a stethoscope and a scarf as a tourniquet. These improv skills will help them in the future when they have to make quick decisions.

Solve Interpersonal Problems

Almost every day, our kids face interpersonal problems as they interact with friends, siblings, and classmates. Through social play, they develop the interpersonal skills they need to solve these problems.

My girls have learned during play time to communicate, share, and compromise. They take turns being the star of the show, ask friends which game they want to play, and don't hog the swing. These skills will help them as they navigate friendships, succeed at work, and have families of their own.

Become Self-Confident

As adults, we can't ask everyone else's opinion before we solve a problem. We have to be confident that we're making the right decisions without constantly second-guessing ourselves.

I'm glad that our kids build this self-confidence as they play. They learn more about their likes, interests, values, and talents as they play games and sports. Give your kids opportunities to play and they will gain the self-confidence they need to make their own decisions.

Appreciate Other Viewpoints

Problem-solving often requires me to think about someone else. I can't decide where to eat dinner, what game to play, or when to run errands without considering my family's needs.

Play helps our kids appreciate other viewpoints. Not only do they learn to appreciate the interests, feelings, and desires of their playmates, but they also they learn about diversity and other cultures, traditions, and religions as they play. They will need to appreciate the viewpoints other people have as they solve problems in the future.

Consider the Outcomes

One of my daughters enjoys books that allow the reader to choose from several endings. There are no wrong answers, and it's like reading a different book every day!

I thought about those books today as I reflected on how play can teach our kids to be better problem-solvers. They may ask questions like, "How far will the water from this squirter reach? How many blocks can I stack before the wall falls down? If I wear sandals to hike, will my feet hurt?" Considering the outcomes as they play prepares them to question, examine, and think critically as they make decisions in their everyday life.

Learn to Make Mistakes

Sometimes, we won't make the right decision, and that's OK. Learning to make mistakes and dealing with the consequences is part of life. That's why I allow my girls to make mistakes as they play. For instance, one time, they pretended they worked in a hair salon and cut their dolls' hair. They learned a hard lesson that day, but I would rather they make mistakes and learn than not play or take any action at all.

Play is important for childhood. I appreciate that it helps my girls become build problem-solving skills in seven key ways. How does play help your kids become better at solving problems?

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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Friday, October 14, 2016

Wearable Wonders: 5 Benefits of Dress-Up Play for Children

Photo by The Wu's Photo Land (Flickr)

Ever since they were young, my girls have enjoyed playing dress-up. Sure, they like wearing costumes at Halloween, but they also dive into our dress-up bin during the year. One day, they pretend they're firefighters, and the next day, they're princesses. While they have fun transforming into different characters, they also gain five important benefits as they play.

Dress-Up Fosters Imagination

When kids dress up, they can be anyone and live anywhere as they create characters, scenarios, and storylines. Their play time allows them to explore other realities and take on unique roles. And it doesn't matter if their stories make sense because they're being creative.

Encourage your kids to imagine when you provide them with costumes and props. You can even give them story ideas or let them create their own scenarios as you foster their imaginations.

Dress-Up Builds Empathy

It's important to me that my girls understand other people. I want them to be sympathetic and kind as well as supportive of other lifestyles and cultures. This empathy helps them to be successful in school, friendships, and life, and they learn this lesson while playing dress-up.

In costumes, kids can be people or animals from different countries. They also explore a variety of social situations and emotions that help them empathize with others and practice patience, tolerance, and kindness. I'm grateful that with a few costumes, my girls can become more compassionate people.

Dress-Up Develops Communication Skills

As doctors, Martians, or dancers, kids have to think about what their character will say and effectively communicate the character's mindset, values, and wants. I've even heard my girls deliver their dialogues in an accent and say phrases and words they don't normally use.

Communication happens when kids play dress-up solo, too, since they typically act out stories with their stuffed animals or imaginary friends. Thanks to dress-up play, our kids develop better communication skills and are more prepared for success in everyday life.

Dress-Up Improves Creative Thinking

My girls take dress-up very seriously. They outline detailed stories and scenes that really stretch their creative thinking skills. In fact, last weekend, they imagined that they were doctors and created an entire hospital in our playroom.

It's fun for me to watch them problem-solve, negotiate, and become confident expressing themselves. The creative thinking skills they learn now will assist them in life as they think outside of the box to solve problems and find solutions quickly.

Dress-Up Encourages Self-Discovery

Kids who pretend they are someone else actually learn more about themselves and their identity. They can figure out their emotions, values, and self-worth as they play. For example, while playing a teacher, they may learn that they like helping others learn, and while playing a villain, they may see how selfishness hurts others.

Dress-up also helps kids become confident in who they are. It allows them to take charge, make mistakes, and develop a unique style. I appreciate that dress-up encourages self-discovery and helps my girls develop a stronger sense of self-esteem and self-identity.

Playing dress-up is a fun activity that gives kids five key benefits. I know I love hearing my girls giggle, talk, and cooperate with each other as they wear costumes. What other things could dress-up play help your kids learn this Halloween and every day?